Malacanang welcomes appointment of new US envoy to PHL

MANILA — Malacañan official expressed optimism that the appointment of Sung Kim as the new United States Ambassador to the Philippines signals a desire from the Americans to foster a better cultural understanding between the US and the Philippines.

In a radio interview over government-run Radyo ng Bayan, Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said the Palace welcomes the appointment of Sung Kim as the new US envoy to the Philippines, noting that Mr. Kim is a Korean, of Asian descent. Sung Kim was sworn into office by US Secretary of State John Kerry earlier this week to replace outgoing US Ambassador Philip Goldberg.

Abella said Kim’s appointment is expected to foster better ties between the Philippines and United States.“It’s very significant po that they chose an Asian… I’m sure it’s some form of a signal na they want to be on a better cultural footing at pagkakaintindi na between Asian(s). That seems to be right now the most obvious, one of the major significant reasons why they chose a Korean also. So ang gusto po siguro nila mas maintindihan tayo, that we’re able to relate on better cultural terms,” Abella said.

Abella also said the Philippines is “one of the most exciting places right now.”